Ontario Grain Farmer December 2021/January 2022

says Shaw, makes it even more difficult to predict where the market will end up come the forthcoming growing season. Based on what was known at the time of this writing, it is very possible fertilizer will be higher in April and May of 2022. But like Linville, he reiterates reality might turn out differently — one potential factor being a drop in demand on the part of farmers. “How much higher can you raise the price without demand dropping off?,” Shaw asks. STRATEGIC USE With thinner profit margins, 2022 could be an ideal year for more strategic fertility plans. Dale Cowan, senior agronomist and agronomy strategy manager with Agris Cooperative, says it might be possible for some farmers to “coast” high-fertility fields until input prices are more favourable. Improved variable rate application could also help save on inputs. But while he believes the forthcoming months are “a year to really up the management game,” Cowan reiterates growers should not consider fertilizer availability and price until they know their budget, cash flow situation, and what their fertility needs are. Supply issues stemming from a lack of shipping are hard to ignore, however, particularly in light of ongoing truck and shipping container shortages. Cowan says Agris has not been experiencing major supply disruptions, due in part to the early ordering of product from suppliers. Indeed, significant quantities of fertilizer was in the process of being delivered to the cooperative as of the end of September. But in a situation where shipping is in such high demand, the lynchpin for farmers and ag- retailers alike will be whether product can be delivered quickly enough. “There simply won’t be enough trucks to move [crops] and fertilizer on the same day. The demand is very high. There are no breaks to get caught up,” he says. “Work with your supplier on detailed plans. Do it early and be prepared to substitute products. We need to plan everything, understand logistics, it’s a good time to look at your fields which are in the most need of nutrients.” The opinions expressed in this article are those of the commentators. l ONTARIO GRAIN FARMER 17 DECEMBER 2021/JANUARY 2022 The fact that some fertilizer suppliers operate as oligopolies and virtual monopolies makes it even more difficult to predict where the market will end up come the forthcoming growing season. AirMix Liquid Fluidizer Flat Floor Stainless Tanks Stainless Hopper Bins Powder Coated Multi-Purpose SmoothWall Bins Meridian is the leader in fertilizer storage systems. Take advantage of low prices, bulk savings and avoid lineups when you’re time matters most by storing fertilizer on your farm. Meridian has a full range of customizable Stainless Tanks and SmoothWall Bins sure to fit your needs. ® © 2021 Meridian Manufacturing Inc. Registered Trademarks Used Under License. (11/2021)